Gemma Arterton: 'I've had bitchy scrutiny'

Gemma Arterton has claimed to be the victim of "bitchy scrutiny" since becoming a Hollywood actress.

The Prince Of Persia star told Metro that she has not let herself be affected by comments about her appearance.

Arterton said: "It's a completely different world. I'm from a working-class background and suddenly I was getting phone calls saying I need to sort my teeth out, I need to work on my arms, and not to worry about that scene on Tuesday, just make sure I'm in shape.

"But for me that doesn't matter. I never watch a film and think, 'Oh my God, her arms'."

Of her upcoming role in The Little Dog Laughed, a play about a secretly gay actor, she added: "I have gay actor friends who've been advised not to come out as it would affect their film casting, which is odd because the theatre world is sooo gay!

"But I find it fascinating that what the public idolise is often a cover-up. I've spent some time now with people who have to be aware all the time of what they do and who they talk to.

"And I've also been subject to bitchy scrutiny, which I've laughed off. Comments about my looks or my weight or what I wear. As someone who is very trusting, I find it a tragic, sad world."

The Little Dog Laughed opens at the Garrick Theatre in London's West End on January 20.